Garden Rescue’s Lee Burkhill hits back at cruel comments about Charlie Dimmock’s appearance – and issues viewer warning
LEE Burkhill has compared himself to Garden Rescue legend Charlie Dimmock while warning viewers they will have to get used to his ‘controversial’ outfits.
The award winning garden designer is planning on wearing sleeveless shirts on the BBC show as the weather grows warmer, but is worried about receiving backlash.
Lee was previously ridiculed for his outfits by vile trolls online who told him to ‘cover up’ after he was seen in a vest top.
The TV star felt it was a homophobic attack, and took to Instagram to defend himself.
Now with a new series of Garden Rescue about to air, he told viewers: “Guess what’s back ninjas. VESTS! Haterz be warned. The weather’s fine so out come the skinny boy tattooed arms! All shapes and sizes welcome at Garden Ninja!”
Lee went on to reference the controversy one of his colleagues previously faced on the show when she didn’t wear a bra underneath her tops while gardening.
Charlie Dimmock previously shared that she received the crude nickname ‘Horticultural Viagra’ on set because of her dress code, adding that she found it “ridiculous”.
Lee continued with his cheeky tirade, adding: “I bet [Charlie] Dimmock back in the day never got as much stick… oh wait??
“So here we go with the next season of Garden Rescue. With an assortment of sleeveless delectations for you all!”
Fans gathered to support him, with one proudly declaring: “Haters can do one! Loved Dimmock for her individuality and the practicality! You both rock and keep rocking!”
Another added: “I’m old enough to remember Charlie on telly and the horror it generated.
“It’s hilarious that your arms are attracting the same level of pearl clutching, wear that like a badge of honour!”
A third chimed in: “I don’t know what’s more entertaining, the gardens you design or the following debacle from haters.”
The gardener previously opened up about being bullied as a teenager for his sexuality and it seems he is keen to avoid the same treatment as an adult.